Those who’ve experienced repeated swallowing trouble are sometimes diagnosed with a condition called Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). Although this condition is chronic, it can usually be managed effectively with medications or by avoiding foods that trigger the symptoms.

With this condition, foreign cells called eosinophil invade the esophagus. These cells release proteins that inflame the throat, making it difficult to swallow. In some EoE patients, food will become stuck in the esophagus. When this happens, emergency help is often needed to remove it. In babies, EoE can cause recurrent vomiting or feeding difficulties. Additional symptoms may include upper abdominal pain, chest pain or heartburn symptoms that do not subside with typical heartburn medications.